Luke Bryan definitely deserves to win Entertainer of the Year at the 2017 CMA Awards.

The superstar is up against tough competition that includes Keith Urban, Chris Stapleton, Eric Church and Garth Brooks, and though they are all talented in some very special ways, Bryan's on a streak right now that just can't be denied.

Bryan's Huntin', Fishin' and Lovin' Every Day Tour has been one of the biggest of the year, and he's gearing up to release a hugely anticipated new album, What Makes You Country, on Dec. 8. The first single from that album, "Light It Up," is already lighting up country radio, and the project promises to be special for Bryan's fans, containing a duet and an ode to his sons, among other songs.

Bryan's one of the most beloved artists in the genre on the personal side, as well; fans follow him, his wife and their life with their boys avidly via social media. That all-around appeal is one important reason Luke Bryan deserves to win Entertainer of the Year at the 2017 CMA Awards.

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  • 1

    His New Music

    Fans have had a little while to wait for Bryan's new music, and he hasn't disappointed them. "Light It Up" is already a Top 10 hit not long after its release, and it won't be a surprise if it becomes Bryan's next No. 1 hit before his album is even out. That's the kind of fan and radio loyalty we need to see an Entertainer of the Year inspire.

  • 4

    His Tour Numbers

    Bryan has become a perennial favorite as a live entertainer, playing the biggest venues in the U.S. every time he hits the road. His Huntin', Fishin' and Lovin' Every Day Tour has been no exception; the massive road trek has seen Bryan raking in huge crowds again this year. Live appeal is one of the key components to winning Entertainer of the Year, and Bryan can certainly demonstrate staying power in that area.

  • 3

    He's an Overall Fan Favorite

    Bryan's appeal goes well beyond his music. His private life at home with his wife Caroline and their kids is a subject of intense interest from fans, so much so that Caroline has her own devoted social media following. Bryan's life story is one of heartbreak and triumph, with him and his family overcoming the deaths of his brother and sister, as well as enduring more tragedy. The fact that Bryan keeps moving forward as an entertainer through all of it creates a special bond between him and his fans.

  • 2

    He's So Much Fun

    The word "entertainer" implies fun, and no artist in country music is more fun than Luke Bryan. His songs and especially his live shows are wall-to-wall action and nonstop fun, and even his interviews ring with a sense of good humor. There's no doubt that he has the "entertainer" portion of Entertainer of the Year down pat.

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    He's Everywhere

    Luke Bryan is an artist who has transcended country music and gained mainstream fame. Turn on the radio and you'll hear him. Turn on mainstream talk shows and you'll see him. He's on American Idol now, one of America's highest-profile TV gigs. Go to the checkout stand at the grocery store and ... yep, there he is on the covers of magazines. Bryan has achieved the kind of mainstream recognition that prepares an artist for Entertainer of the Year.

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